What is the tuition at Washington State?

Beginning Fall Term 2014, tuition is $139.00 per credit hour for Ohio residents, and $278.00 per credit hour for Non-Ohio residents.For a worksheet of average costs, CLICK HERE, Fees and payment plans, CLICK HERE.

What is "verification" and why do I have to complete more paperwork?

Any student who applies for federal student aid (FAFSA) can be randomly selected for verification. Once you are selected, you must submit certain documents to confirm information on the application. These documents may include, but are not limited to, signed copies of IRS Federal Tax return transcripts for student, spouse and/or parent; verification worksheets; W2 forms, proof of child support paid or received, etc. Financial aid cannot be finalized until all forms are completed.

Why do I have to use last years' tax information - that information isn't accurate anymore?

Even if you feel the FAFSA will not reflect changed financial circumstances in the current year, complete the FAFSA as best you can, supplying the information requested. Washington State Community College has a formal institutional appeal process to handle unusual circumstances. Students may submit a special circumstances appeal form to help determine if your circumstances bear consideration in reevaluating your financial aid eligibility. To see if you are eligible for an appeal, please contact the Office of Financial Aid.

Can I use all of my financial aid for the year in one semester?

No. Federal regulations require us to disburse aid equally across terms of enrollments.

Why do I have to use my parent's tax information if I don't live with them and they don't support me?

The instructions on the FAFSA reflect rules set by Congress. If you have extenuating circumstances, such as parental abuse or if both parents are deceased, please file an appeal by using this form (.pdf). We are NOT able to consider appeals to become independent just because you live on your own and are self-sufficient, you are not claimed by your parents as a tax exemption, your parents refuse to provide information on the FAFSA or your parents do not support you.

I need a copy of my IRS Federal Tax Return Transcript and I don't have one?

You may obtain copies of federal tax return transcripts and past W-2's at www.irs.gov or by calling 1.800.829.1040.You may also obtain copies of W-2's from your previous employer(s).

Do I need to file a tax return?

You may contact an accountant to determine your filing status, or you may visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov and follow the directions there.

How will I know how much financial aid I'm getting?

If a student is eligible for financial aid, he/she will receive a Financial Aid Award Letter. This letter tells: type(s) of award(s) student will receive; amount(s) per semester; terms and conditions to meet while receiving aid. Students may also check their WebAdvisor account to view aid and accept student loans if desired.

How long before I know about my financial aid status?

It will take 7-14 business days for the Financial aid office to receive information from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You will be notified by mail of the next step to take in order to process your financial aid. It can take 6-8 weeks to complete the entire process.

I don't think I will qualify for aid. Should I apply anyway?

Yes! Many families mistakenly think they don't qualify for aid and prevent themselves from receiving financial aid by failing to apply for it. In addition, there are a few sources of aid such as unsubsidized Stafford and PLUS loans that are available regardless of need. The FAFSA form is free. The financial aid office cannot process any aid for a student without the FAFSA on file.

Is there a deadline to apply for FAFSA?

Please check the Financial Aid main page for FAFSA priority deadlines. We use the priority deadline for each semester when determining scholarships.